Chinese scientific groups call for open AI governance framework
Sixteen scientific societies affiliated with China's national science organization issued a joint initiative Monday calling for an open, fair and inclusive global AI governance system.
The groups-spanning automation, electronics, computer science and artificial intelligence-released the Initiative of the Global Science and Technology Society on AI Governance through the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST).
Security and human benefit as core principles
The initiative establishes two foundational requirements: increasing human well-being should guide AI research, while security must serve as the baseline for all governance efforts.
The document explicitly opposes "technological hegemony, academic barriers, exclusive 'small circles,' and unreasonable technological monopolies." It calls for equal participation from all countries in AI research and governance decisions.
Addressing public understanding and international cooperation
The groups emphasize the need for science communication on AI's current capabilities and potential risks. They recommend diverse channels for public dialogue to ensure accurate understanding of the technology's development stage.
Because AI development crosses borders, the initiative frames governance as a shared responsibility. It urges scientific societies to strengthen international academic exchange with "an open and inclusive posture."
Liang Zheng, director of the AI governance research center at Tsinghua University, said China has consistently balanced development and security in its approach to global AI governance. Scientific groups, he added, bear responsibility for building consensus, defining boundaries and offering solutions.
Context: Recent academic disputes
The initiative follows CAST's March announcement that Chinese scientific groups would boycott a top international AI conference. The conference had cited U.S. sanctions in blocking certain Chinese researchers from submitting papers.
The groups called the move a politicization of academic exchange that contradicts core values of openness and cooperation recognized by the international research community.
For professionals working in AI research, understanding these governance frameworks matters as international collaboration increasingly shapes the field. Consider exploring AI for Science & Research to stay current on how these policy discussions affect research practice.
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